Environmental Design

Learn what influences the natural and built landscape. Apply planning and design processes to make informed decisions regarding preservation, development, land use, and resource allocation. This program provides a sound theoretical understanding of both environmental and human issues as a foundation of knowledge for a wide range of design and planning fields.

This major is also available as a minor.

Concentrations

Built Environment

Has a pre-architecture studies focus. Students pursue their interest in the relationship between the environment and built forms through studying aesthetics, space planning, and building structures and mechanics.

Horticultural Studies

Teaches students to apply sound ecological and scientific principles in conserving nature and adding beauty through the use of plants. This concentration combines the scientific knowledge of horticulture with the theoretical and practical aspects of landscape design, technology, and business management. Graduates work in the rapidly growing "green industry," which involves all aspects of plant production, landscape construction, and maintenance.

Landscape Studies

Explores landscape aesthetics and conservation. Learning from historical examples, students examine how people have changed or modified their environments throughout time. With this foundation, students are then prepared to seek ways to conserve or revitalize the contextual landscapes of existing communities.

Urban Studies

Explores the evolving forms of cities and towns. Students examine how communities evolve, flourish, and decline. They then propose and discuss alternative methods of achieving community goals, anticipating developmental impacts, and planning for a sustainable future.

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	6 (+10)	There are 6 dedicated Environmental Design faculty members. However, this major has a lot of overlap with other majors in the same department. The 10 other faculty members contribute significantly to students in this major.
	11	students in class of 2006
	90%	of juniors surveyed in 2006 were very satisfied or satisfied with their major

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